June 08, 2017

Summer Reading - Put Adventure Cats on Your List!

How many of you think cats are just...laid back, lazy, unfriendly creatures? Raise your hand.

Yep, I knew it. A lot of hands went up. Sigh. You all think cats are no fun. That they lay about all day, choosing to rise only at feeding time. Occasionally, they join the family during TV time, but only to find a warm lap to lie on. Sometimes, they torture the dog. Just by glaring at her.

No fun at all.

Well, you are so wrong I don't know how to begin proving that cats are as fun as dogs (or other creatures we tame and call pets). I actually don't have to prove it because Laura J. Moss already has. Her pawsome book, Adventure Cats, Living Nine Live to the Fullest, is proof positive that cats are vibrant, fun, endearing, and adventurous... just like dogs.

I was lucky enough to receive a copy of the book (and one to give away if you are interested - just leave a comment describing an adventure you've taken your cat on), a few weeks ago and yes, I did then promise to write a review. As you know, I do not give false praise. If I don't like the book sent to me, it languished in a pile in the corner of my office. I don't write bad reviews. What's the use of that? I only cover those tomes that touch me in some way. After all, this blog is about the human-animal bond.

The cover of Adventure Cats tell us, "Yes, your cat can hike, camp, sail, and more." Woohoo! I admit, I didn't believe it. I admit I have only ever had cats much like those described above. Nice cats. Good cats. Lovable cats. But, not adventurous at all.

After reading this marvelous book...and falling in love with the cats shown (the photography is stupendous!), I realize the reason I did not have adventurous cats in my home is because...I never gave them a chance! Awful me!

Moss notes in the introduction of the book, "Why Adventure with a Cat? One of the many things people love about cats is how they remind us to slow down. With their soothing purrs and fondness for snuggling, our feline friends can be a comforting presence in our homes - not to mention the purrfect companions for a [movie] marathon. If may seem out of character or even downright strange to bring a cat on a nature hike or canoe trip, but for many adventure cat owners, taking the cat along was always part of the plan." WOW! I feel chastised!

All right. I don't feel that bad. I am not all that adventurous myself. But, after reading and enjoying this book, I feel a need to be out in nature. I want to take my cat. We all know I can't do that right now. Molly is too ill to be adventurous. But, when I consider the possibility of a new cat (down the road - I really love cats! As much as I love dogs!) I do believe we will get a harness for him or her, and teach him or her to walk on a leash. Oh, that opens up so many doors, doesn't it?

Don't tell Chloe Puton, the truly professional and marvelous woman who approached me about writing in a blog tour for Adventure Cats, but... I was skeptical. I mean, cats surfing? Really? I accepted the book wondering if I would like it.

Let me tell you that I love it! I love the contents and how the author shares stories and tips and makes the case for taking cats with you on your vacations or trips away from home. I especially love, love, love the photographs. The copyright page rightly lists the photographers and there are several so I won't add them here, but I advise you to get a book, look at that page and marvel at the beautiful photos these talented photographers created with cats - cats out and about - and then, get another copy of the book and give it to a friend. I know you have birthdays and graduations coming up. This is the BEST gift ever!

Ok, so, as noted above, you can win a copy. I have a copy to give away. Just share an adventure with me, in the comments. One you included your cat in. Or, if you haven't taken you cat on an adventure (you will after you read this book), tell me about an adventure you'd like to take your cat on.

Over and out. I leave you with Moss's dedication:

This one's for all the adventurers on this beautiful planet and for everyone who's ever known the love of a cat." (comic sans font used for effect - the quote in the book is in a beautiful handwriting font)

This is awesome, great read! As avid adventurers in Vancouver, BC Canada we are always on the go but never think to bring our cat. Definitely never thought about the leash idea, can't wait to test it out on our next fall hike!

Thank you for telling me about (& giving me a review of) this book. I want to check this out because I think it could really help me.

I have a leash, but haven't tried using it yet. I guess I'm hesitant because my cat doesn't like going into the travel carrier, then once she's in she meows the way whole time until she's let out. I would love to take her places, but I don't want to destress her.

I'm so honored!

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